Catalogue Connection: 25054

Kenneth Smith has been first flute in the Philharmonia for nearly a quarter of a century, during which time he has been responsible for some of the best orchestral flute playing imaginable. Occasionally (too occasionally) he makes a solo recording. This one, of some familiar and less familiar French music, contains some playing so ravishing that I need to find my thesaurus to find some fresh superlatives. The sound Kenneth Smith produces is simply beautiful. This is not just another recording of the Poulenc Sonata, but rather one of a freshness that made me listen to the work in a way I have not done for years. Reynaldo Hahn’s Two Pieces and Joseph-Guy Ropartz’s Sonatine are works that are rarely played. I cannot imagine why, as they are delightful music. Kenneth Smith plays the Dutilleux Sonatine with the greatest virtuosity. The Franck Sonata is given a terrific performance. Paul Rhodes is the excellent pianist, supportive yet equal.

Kenneth Smith, solo flute of the Philharmonia Orchestra, and the pianist Paul Rhodes have recorded this very interesting programme with a special feel for sonorous beauty. In this regard the slow movements like the Cantilena from the sonata by Poulenc and the “Très lent” from that by Ropartz take on a most tender character. But the two musicians also know well how to capture the light and leaping character of the Finale of the Poulenc sonata and the other lively movements of the programme. The evocative atmospheres of the “Danse pour une déesse” and “L’Enchanteur” by Reynaldo Hahn are absolutely ravishing.

Well supported in this by Paul Rhodes, Kenneth Smith, always very expressive and adapting to the different colours of the pieces, gives to this programme a character which is truly French, in perfect taste and without any excess. The title of the CD could not have been better chosen: this disc is a true enchantment.